Can't get past preparing automatic repair

[Bevpoz]

My hp laptop won't reboot and keeps getting stuck on a loop that says preparing automatic repair.  I can't get anywhere.  I have tried the Fs and hard reboots.

[Max3Aj]

Hello @Bevpoz, and welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your question. I'm here to help you get things back on track.

I understand how frustrating it can be when your HP laptop gets stuck in a boot loop. Let's walk through a few steps to help resolve the "Preparing Automatic Repair" issue.

Perform a Hard Reset

This helps clear temporary hardware issues.

• Power off the laptop completely.
• Disconnect all external devices (USB drives, printers, etc.).
• Unplug the power adapter.
• Press and hold the Power button for 15 seconds.
• Reconnect the power adapter and try turning it on again.

Boot into Recovery Environment

Try accessing Windows Recovery to perform repairs.

• Power on the laptop and immediately press the F11 key repeatedly (once per second).
• If successful, you'll enter the Choose an option screen.
• Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.

If F11 doesn’t work, try Esc or F9/F10/F12 depending on your model.

Use HP Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI)

Check for hardware issues.

• Turn off the laptop.
• Power it on and press Esc repeatedly, then press F2 to enter HP PC Hardware Diagnostics.
• Run System Tests > Extensive Test.

Boot from HP Cloud Recovery or Windows Installation Media

If recovery options fail, you may need to reinstall Windows.

• Use another PC to create a recovery USB:
  • HP Cloud Recovery Tool: HP Consumer PCs - Using the HP Cloud Recovery Tool in Windows 11 and 10 | HP® Support
  • Or use Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool. 
• Boot from the USB and follow on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows.

I hope the information shared has been useful and resolves your concern.

Wishing you a smooth and hassle-free experience ahead!

If this solution helped, please click “Accepted Solution” so others can benefit too. Don’t forget to hit the “Yes” button if you found this helpful!

Warm regards,

Max3Aj

HP Support